A Scarf as a Cultural Metaphor

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Table of Contents

Introduction
Evolution
Importance of Scarf
New Role of Scarves
Conclusion
Works Cited

Introduction

A scarf is a popular part of people’s garments worldwide. People of any age, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic group can wear this item nowadays. Although nowadays, it is considered primarily a symbol of femininity, scarves are unisexual and can be worn by men as well. Scarves have become an essential part of modern fashion and play an essential role in the wardrobe of every glamorous person. The origins of the scarf date back to 1350 BC in Ancient Egypt (“The History of Scarves”). According to the historical evidence, the first recorded scarf was worn by Queen Nefertiti and represented a “tightly-woven headscarf” to provide a barrier between her scalp and jeweled headpiece (“History of Scarves – Our Complete Guide”). Later, the scarf experienced numerous transformations and became an important element of various activities.

Evolution

Afterward, as the culture of belly dancing emerged and rapidly developed in the East, the scarves were used like belts to highlight the movements of the hips. In Ancient Rome, scarves were mainly part of men’s wardrobe rather than women’s and were used as “sweat cloth” to swipe sweat and keep cool (“History of Scarves – Our Complete Guide”). During the rule of the Chinese Emperor Cheng, the scarves were a part of the military uniform and were worn to demonstrate the rank of the military personnel in Croatia in the 17th century (“The History of Scarves”). Napoleon Bonaparte first introduced the scarves to France by gifting them to his wife Josephine de Beauharnais, who collected a vast amount of this element of clothing during the next three years (“The History of Scarves”). Inspired by his gift, the rest of the developed world started to wear and manufacture this piece of garment.

Importance of Scarf

First of all, scarves have become a crucial part of almost every high-fashion brand’s showcase and are mainly associated with people of a high class. Famous haute couture houses such as Gucci, Burberry, and Hermes include this accessory in every catwalk of their new models (Deihl). Mainly in Western culture, the scarves represent the elegance and the good taste of their users. Looking at how this accessory harmonizes with the rest of the clothes, people can identify the taste of the person and their style. Apart from the representation of high fashion, a scarf can add additional meanings and provide more information about the people wearing them (Tayub). Therefore, the scarves have been seen as a symbol of glamour for a long time.

New Role of Scarves

However, in recent years a new role of the scarves has emerged in the culture. The scarves embody the “new power symbol” for women (Deihl). Females who work in a conservative atmosphere and wear strict uniforms began to diversify their clothes using bright and colorful scarves. For example, Christine Lagarde, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, wore a scarf to the G8 Summit, which attracted a lot of attention and became the symbol of women’s power (“Scarves as The Symbol of Power & a Perfect Gift”). In such a way, it became a tool to create a brighter and more memorizable image.

Conclusion

From my perspective, the scarves symbolize elegance and high fashion. When I meet women and men who skillfully wear scarves, I think about their occupations and careers. I believe it emphasizes their social status and success. I think that it is mainly due to the representation of the scarf by mass media as a glamorous piece of accessory and its long history. In addition, I think the scarves represent femininity and seem to be mainly associated with women’s wardrobes rather than male ones.